Tennessee Launches First-in-the-Nation K–2 Nuclear Energy Workshops to Spark Early Interest in Clean Energy Futures
Empowering Young Minds with Innovative Learning Experiences to Shape Tomorrow's Energy Leaders
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 10, 2025
Brandi Stroecker
stroecker@battelle.org
Tennessee Launches First-in-the-Nation K–2 Nuclear Energy Workshops to Spark Early Interest in Clean Energy Futures
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — June 3, 2025 — The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network (TSIN), in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) Nuclear Engineering Department, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development, North American Young Generation in Nuclear, and leading energy advocates, has launched a groundbreaking statewide initiative to introduce nuclear energy concepts in K–2 classrooms. This bold new approach supports Governor Bill Lee’s vision to position Tennessee as the nation’s leader in nuclear innovation and workforce readiness.
Through a five-year effort, more than 280 elementary teachers from across Tennessee will be trained to deliver age-appropriate, inquiry-based energy education that demystifies nuclear power and lays the foundation for future interest in clean energy careers. The TSIN “Powering Our Town” K-2 nuclear energy curriculum is the first of its kind in the United States focused on early learners.
"We reached out and connected with TSIN because we knew they could help us develop nuclear energy curriculum and training for educators across the state of Tennessee. We had no idea the 11 lessons and exposure to nuclear industry experts would provide such a meaningful and impactful experience for the attendees and our team.” Dr. Wes Hines, UTK Nuclear Engineering Chancellor’s Professor Emeritus.
“Thank you all for the inspiring K–2 Nuclear Adventure Workshop. It was truly a fantastic experience, and I am so grateful for the time, resources, materials, and energy you invested in us!” Dr. Tiffany M. Collins, Innovation Coach and Educator for Oak Ridge Schools.
Educators participated in "Nuclear Energy 101" to build foundational knowledge and engaged with industry leaders who shared their expertise. The afternoon focused on the Engineering Design Process (EDP) and quality Project-Based Learning (PBL), essential for designing engaging lessons. Educators then explored the "Powering Our Town" PBL, driven by the question, "How can we design a model town that uses nuclear energy to power homes, schools, and businesses?" This project spans 11 lessons and integrates multiple Tennessee Academic Standards.
TSIN’s initiative is more than just science instruction—it’s a strategic investment in Tennessee’s future energy workforce. By empowering elementary teachers with tools and confidence to teach nuclear science in engaging ways, the program builds a long-term pipeline of students who will be prepared to innovate, lead, and solve tomorrow’s energy challenges.
"This is an unprecedented opportunity to connect Tennessee’s youngest students with one of the most promising clean energy solutions of our time," said Brandi Stroecker, Director of TSIN. "We are proud to support Governor Lee’s mission by building a foundation that not only informs but inspires."
The project draws on UTK’s nationally recognized nuclear engineering faculty, curriculum experts, and energy advocates to ensure content is developmentally appropriate, scientifically rigorous, and aligned with Tennessee’s academic standards.
The recent workshop saw an impressive turnout, with 24 attendees who are set to impact 7,623 students across the state. Participants reported an average confidence boost in nuclear energy understanding of 97%. Moreover, the commitment to implement the curriculum was overwhelmingly positive, with 98% of attendees committed to teaching the content in the 2025-26 academic year. One attendee remarked, "I learned so much about nuclear energy and how to implement the ideas in my teaching," highlighting the workshop's effectiveness in equipping educators with the knowledge and skills to inspire the next generation.
Interested educators and districts can learn more at www.tsin.org/nuclear.
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About TSIN
The Tennessee STEM Innovation Network, a public-private partnership between the Tennessee Department of Education and Battelle, is committed to advancing STEM teaching and learning across the state. TSIN empowers educators, engages students, and connects communities through transformative STEM experiences.
